On October 28th, Dr. Chung completed her final recital for her Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) program at Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. Now, she is officially Doctor Chung! Her years of hard work and dedication truly paid off in this memorable performance.

A Masterful Performance of Ligeti’s Piano Études

Dr. Chung’s recital featured György Ligeti’s Études pour piano, Premier livre. Ligeti, known for his innovative compositions, is famous for pushing the boundaries of rhythm and harmony. His works, which many recognize from films like 2001: A Space Odyssey and The Shining, present unique challenges for pianists. Dr. Chung’s performance captured the intricate layers and intense emotions in each piece. From the energy of “Désordre” to the haunting beauty of “Automne à Varsovie,” her recital was both technically impressive and emotionally moving.

Capturing the Moment: Dress Rehearsal Photography

I took the accompanying photographs during Dr. Chung’s dress rehearsal at Peabody Conservatory, just days before the recital. This rehearsal allowed her to fine-tune every detail in the historic and elegant performance hall. Capturing the grandeur of the venue and the depth of her preparation was important to convey the significance of this moment. Dr. Chung’s hard work and passion were evident throughout the rehearsal, making each shot a testament to her dedication.

The Gear Behind the Photos

To capture these moments at Peabody Conservatory, I used my Canon EOS 7D. The EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM lens helped me capture the vastness of the recital hall, showcasing its architectural beauty. The EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM lens, with its wide aperture, was perfect for low-light situations, ensuring that every detail of Dr. Chung’s performance was clear and vivid. For close-ups, the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM lens provided sharpness and focus, allowing me to highlight the emotion on Dr. Chung’s face as she performed. This gear combination enabled me to document the rehearsal and recital with precision and care.

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